Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Nomatic Travel 40L Bag
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 52×30×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 71% |
| Price | $179 |
Feature by feature
| Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus | Feature | Nomatic Travel 40L Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| Y | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | hideable |
| N | Hip Belt | removable |
| N | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 15in | Laptop | 16in |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 7 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 2, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 90% Polyester / 10% Nylon Weather Resistant YKK Zippers |
Nomatic Travel 40L Bag
| Capacity | 40 L |
| Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 53×36×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 63% |
| Price | $330 |
Key differences between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and Nomatic Travel 40L Bag
- Opening: Top zip on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Clamshell on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Passport pocket: Yes on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Top on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Luggage passthrough: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Backpack straps: Yes on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Hideable on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Hip belt: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Removable on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Sternum strap: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Laptop sleeve: 15in on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 16in on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Main compartments: 1 on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 7 on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Built-in organizer: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
- Water bottle pockets: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 2, side on the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
Both have: water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 120 accept both. 14 accept only the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus, and 0 accept only the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag.
Only the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus fits
Aerolineas Argentinas, Air France, Air India, Air Mauritius, Boliviana de Aviacion, Cayman Airways, Indigo, Jet Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM, LATAM , Liat Airlines, Pakistan International, Sky Airlines.
When it comes to backpacks, different people need different features. If you're deciding between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag, there's a lot to consider. The Bellroy is a finer, lighter option, tipping the scale at just one pound. Though smaller, it still manages to hold up to 22 liters. For someone looking for a durable everyday carry, this could be perfect. Not only that it's compatible with 65% of airlines, but it also boasts a sleek, minimalist design that fits in anywhere, whether you're at work or out and about.
On the other hand, the Nomatic Travel 40L Bag is a behemoth of a backpack. Measuring greater in all dimensions and weighing in at a solid 1.6 pounds, this bag is hard to ignore. It has a whopping 40 liters capacity that can cater to your adventurous spirits. What’s more impressive is its compatibility being rated at 98% with airlines, which means this backpack can quite literally go anywhere. Built from hardy, weather-resistant materials, this is a pack that's ready for anything.
- Size and Weight: The Bellroy bag is significantly smaller and lighter than the Nomatic bag
- Capacity: Nomatic’s bag trumps Bellroy’s with its larger volume
- Airline Compatibility: Nomatic has better compatibility ratings than Bellroy but the latter still fares well.
- Material: Bellroy offers a blend of polyester and leather, while Nomatic provides a more rugged Tarpaulin and Nylon combination.
- Laptop Compartment: Both packs carry a 15-inch laptop equivalently well.
Between Bellroy's Classic Backpack Plus and Nomatic's Travel 40L Bag, the decision could come down to how much you're carrying and where you're going. If you're looking for a professional aesthetic, with sleek design and great organization, the Classic Backpack Plus may be the way. For those leaning toward the adventurous side who values a robust bag with plenty of space for extra gear, shoes, and the kitchen sink, the Nomatic bag is your go-to option. Both come outfitted with well-designed laptop compartments and have been well-received by users.
There's a significant difference in the user feedback between these two backpacks. Reviewers have commented on the exceptional build, clean aesthetic, and suitability for both students and professionals in the case of the Bellroy backpack. Several reviewers show appreciation for the attention to detail and minimalistic design of this pack. Contrastingly, the Nomatic backpack is hailed for its innovative features and capabilities, with one reviewer labeling it as "the most functional travel bag ever." With massive backing on crowdfunding sites, this powerhouse of a bag seems hard to beat. Regardless, both backpacks offer something different, and the choice ultimately depends on an individual's needs.